It’s no surprise that I believe in the importance of movement for children of all ages. However the evidence is now stacking up in agreement. We are hearing more and more of children with issues. ADHD, needing glasses, Autism and underachievement at school. Letting our children experience a natural childhood outside, in nature, interacting freely with their environment may not solve all of these problems – but it certainly will help! Children make sense of the world and process sensory experiences through movement. That means they actually need to move to fully understand and remember what they are learning. As a teacher I have seen the impact of devices and lack of movement on children. Children 3 years old still lacking basic coordination of gross and fine motor skills (big and small muscle movements). As growth is developmental we need the basics before we can move to complex academics. This is why our children really need to move, play and create their own experiences – at any age. At times I feel like screaming it off the rooftops!
OUR CHILDREN NEED TO MOVE!!
We are structured as a society, and with the pressure on families these days it is no wonder why our children don’t get the opportunity for free play outside with natural resources. But I’m not about guilt – we do the best we can in the circumstances we have. That is why I have found some ideas to help us out! While you plan your Christmas break try incorporating a few of these fun ideas. Get involved with your children and enjoy the benefits of quality time together as well as the benefits for your own soul. Your children will love it – and I bet you will too!
This list came from the National Trust UK. Check out their page too, they have great stuff.
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All the best, and comment your success below. . .